Today the Housing, Communities and Local Authorities Secretary, Robert Jenrick, has announced a £1 billion fourth tranche of funding for councils. This is on top of the £6.4 billion that has already been allocated to local authorities over the course of the pandemic.
In total, Hampshire will receive £8.7 million. Gosport Borough Council are set to receive £298,016 while Fareham Borough Council will see a further £100,000 funding boost. This brings both councils total investment for both since the COVID-19 outbreak in Spring to over £2.7 million.
The news has been welcomed by Gosport MP, Caroline Dinenage, who has regularly met with and supported our local authorities since the outbreak of the COVID-19. The councils have been providing essential support to residents across Gosport, Hill Head, Stubbington and Lee-on-the-Solent, from assisting constituents with essential tasks to housing the most vulnerable residents on the streets and helping businesses reopen safely.
Out of the £1 billion additional investment, £100 million is ringfenced to help local authorities keep their leisure centres open and will be allocated soon.
Caroline commented:
“Both Gosport and Fareham Borough Council have been under immense pressure to support residents and businesses throughout the pandemic.
“These have been tough times, which is why I am pleased that the government has continued to honour its commitment to invest in our local authorities and communities. This funding is vital to ensure they can continue their essential work.
“I will continue to work with both councils to ensure that constituents across Gosport, Hill Head, Stubbington and Lee-on-the-Solent are supported and can access the help they need.”
Local Government Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said:
“Since the start of the pandemic, we have backed local councils with the funding they need to support their communities, protect vital services and recover lost income.
“This extra £1 billion funding will ensure that councils have the resources that they need over the winter and continue to play an essential role on the front line of our response to the virus while protecting the most vulnerable and supporting local businesses.”